Travelogue – Manali, Himachal Pradesh, India

A perfect holiday destination for those who are looking to get some relief from the scorching heat, Manali doesn’t disappoint you when it comes to exploring its serene beauty.
Manali should be on your bucket list if you are an adventure seeker/ adrenaline junkie. Your are sure to get an adrenaline rush with activities such as paragliding, rock climbing, skiing, rafting etc
I went there with my friends and our stay was at the Flamingo Resort. I boarded a Volvo from Majnu ka Tila in Delhi. Manali is quite far off so be prepared for the long bus journey. But the ardous journey is worth it when you open your eyes in the morning and the breathtaking landscape greets you. The huge mountains on one side, the winding road ahead, the mighty river flowing on the other side, is sure to leave you spellbounded.
Day 1 of our trip started in the afternoon with local sightseeing. We visited one of the famous temples in Manali – the Hadimba Temple, which is an ancient cave temple dedicated to Hidimbi Devi, wife of Bhima. The temple is surrounded by cedar forest. On the way to the temple there are Himachali women who carry these massive angora rabbits and try to trick you into taking one. If you are a fan of animals, lift these heavy rabbits and you will have a memory worth preserving.
There is a giant wheel located some distance from the temple. It’s a whole new experience to see lush greenery of the mountains through a scary ride.
Much to my disappointment most of the restaurants in the Manali market were closed during the evening. Explore the manali market to buy trinkets and woollen items.

Day 2 of our journey started early. We visited the Solang Valley. The beas river flows underneath and you go on and on these winding paths up the mountains. Then further on you have to walk and you are greeted by beautiful mountains that surround you. This is where you can indulge in activities such as zorbing, paragliding and rope-way. I choose to trek which turned out to be the most thrilling and adventurous event of my life. You trek and you reach the waterfall where icy cold water greets you and there is a small shop where you can savour hot maggi.

I was not able to visit the Rohtang pass but it should be on your go to list as it is covered in snow and you can indulge in skiing and snow mobile.
On coming back to your home you will surely miss the huge mountains and the lush greenery, so make the most of it while you are there!!